Mario Balotelli’s first Premier League goal gifted Liverpool a 3-2 win over Tottenham Hotspur at Anfield on Tuesday evening.
Liverpool started the game well with Daniel Sturridge making the most of his first Premier League start since August and the English striker came close early on but his tame effort failed to beat Hugo Lloris.
Lloris would be tested shortly after by Sturridge but he made a fine save after a delightful move by the home side which involved Jordan Ibe and Lazar Markovic.
However, despite the Frenchman’s superb resilience, he could not stop Markovic from opening the scoring.
The former Benfica man finished off a superb counter attack from Brendan Rodgers’ side and his goal started what turned into a superb attacking match between the two sides.
Liverpool could have doubled the lead moments later through the impressive Sturridge, but Eric Dier was in impressive form as he denied his compatriot.
Spurs were level just before the half hour mark though thanks to the Premier League’s most in-form striker – Harry Kane.
Kane beat Simon Mignolet after a good move involving Christian Eriksen and Erik Lamela.
The score remained level heading into the break, despite Jordan Ibe’s late chance to beat Lloris.
Brendan Rodgers side then went ahead early in the second half after Danny Rose had fouled Sturridge inside the area, which saw captain Steven Gerrard convert from the spot.
Spurs responded well through as Moussa Dembele levelled the game once more thanks to a free-kick from Eriksen which fell into his path.
Chances were then few and far between as the home side pushed for a winner and it came in in the form of an unexpected source.
Mario Balotelli was hauled on late on and he netted his first Premier League goal of the season to secure all three points for the Merseyside club.
